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Deng J, Searl T, Ohlander S, Dynda D, Harrington DA, McVary KT, Podlasek CA. BMP4 and GREM1 are targets of SHH signaling and downstream regulators of collagen in the penis. J Sex Med 2024; 21:367-378. [PMID: 38451311 PMCID: PMC11063415 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdae015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cavernous nerve (CN) injury, caused by prostatectomy and diabetes, initiates a remodeling process (smooth muscle apoptosis and increased collagen) in the corpora cavernosa of the penis of patients and animal models that is an underlying cause of erectile dysfunction (ED), and the Sonic hedgehog (SHH) pathway plays an essential role in the response of the penis to denervation, as collagen increases with SHH inhibition and decreases with SHH treatment. AIM We examined if part of the mechanism of how SHH prevents penile remodeling and increased collagen with CN injury involves bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) and gremlin1 (GREM1) and examined the relationship between SHH, BMP4, GREM1, and collagen in penis of ED patients and rat models of CN injury, SHH inhibition, and SHH, BMP4, and GREM1 treatment. METHODS Corpora cavernosa of Peyronie's disease (control), prostatectomy, and diabetic ED patients were obtained (N = 30). Adult Sprague Dawley rats (n = 90) underwent (1) CN crush (1-7 days) or sham surgery; (2) CN injury and BMP4, GREM1, or mouse serum albumin (control) treatment via Affi-Gel beads or peptide amphiphile (PA) for 14 days; (3) 5E1 SHH inhibitor, IgG, or phosphate-buffered saline (control) treatment for 2 to 4 days; or (4) CN crush with mouse serum albumin or SHH for 9 days. OUTCOMES Immunohistochemical and Western analysis for BMP4 and GREM1, and collagen analysis by hydroxyproline and trichrome stain were performed. RESULTS BMP4 and GREM1 proteins were identified in corpora cavernosa smooth muscle of prostatectomy, diabetic, and Peyronie's patients, and in rat smooth muscle, sympathetic nerve fibers, perineurium, blood vessels, and urethra. Collagen decreased 25.4% in rats with CN injury and BMP4 treatment (P = .02) and increased 61.3% with CN injury and GREM1 treatment (P = .005). Trichrome stain showed increased collagen in rats treated with GREM1. Western analysis identified increased BMP4 and GREM1 in corpora cavernosa of prostatectomy and diabetic patients, and after CN injury (1-2 days) in our rat model. Localization of BMP4 and GREM1 changed with SHH inhibition. SHH treatment increased the monomer form of BMP4 and GREM1, altering their range of signaling. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS A better understanding of penile remodeling and how fibrosis occurs with loss of innervation is essential for development of novel ED therapies. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS The relationship between SHH, BMP4, GREM1, and collagen is complex in the penis. CONCLUSION BMP4 and GREM1 are downstream targets of SHH that impact collagen and may be useful in collaboration with SHH to prevent penile remodeling and ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangping Deng
- Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
| | - Timothy Searl
- Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
| | - Samuel Ohlander
- Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
| | - Danuta Dynda
- Division of Urology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL 62794 United States
| | - Daniel A Harrington
- Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77054, United States
| | - Kevin T McVary
- Department of Urology, Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL 60153, United States
| | - Carol A Podlasek
- Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
- Department of Physiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, United States
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2
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Gao Z, Houthuijzen JM, Ten Dijke P, Brazil DP. GREM1 signaling in cancer: tumor promotor and suppressor? J Cell Commun Signal 2023:10.1007/s12079-023-00777-4. [PMID: 37615860 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-023-00777-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
GREMLIN1 (GREM1) is member of a family of structurally and functionally related secreted cysteine knot proteins, which act to sequester and inhibit the action of multifunctional bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). GREM1 binds directly to BMP dimers, thereby preventing BMP-mediated activation of BMP type I and type II receptors. Multiple reports identify the overexpression of GREM1 as a contributing factor in a broad range of cancers. Additionally, the GREM1 gene is amplified in a rare autosomal dominant inherited form of colorectal cancer. The inhibitory effects of GREM1 on BMP signaling have been linked to these tumor-promoting effects, including facilitating cancer cell stemness and the activation of cancer-associated fibroblasts. Moreover, GREM1 has been described to bind and signal to vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) and stimulate angiogenesis, as well as epidermal and fibroblast growth factor receptor (EGFR and FGFR) to elicit tumor-promoting effects in breast and prostate cancer, respectively. In contrast, a 2022 report revealed that GREM1 can promote an epithelial state in pancreatic cancers, thereby inhibiting pancreatic tumor growth and metastasis. In this commentary, we will review these disparate findings and attempt to provide clarity around the role of GREM1 signaling in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhichun Gao
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Northern Ireland, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Julia M Houthuijzen
- Oncode Institute, Division of Molecular Pathology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam, 1066 CX, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Ten Dijke
- Oncode Institute, Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Derek P Brazil
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Northern Ireland, BT9 7BL, UK.
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3
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Del Cuore A, Pipitone RM, Casuccio A, Mazzola MM, Puleo MG, Pacinella G, Riolo R, Maida C, Di Chiara T, Di Raimondo D, Zito R, Lupo G, Agnello L, Di Maria G, Ciaccio M, Grimaudo S, Tuttolomondo A. Metabolic memory in diabetic foot syndrome (DFS): MICRO-RNAS, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) frequency and their relationship with indices of endothelial function and adipo-inflammatory dysfunction. Cardiovasc Diabetol 2023; 22:148. [PMID: 37365645 DOI: 10.1186/s12933-023-01880-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetic foot is a significant cause of morbidity in diabetic patients, with a rate that is approximately twice that of patients without foot ulcers. "Metabolic memory" represents the epigenetic changes induced by chronic hyperglycaemia, despite the correction of the glucose levels themselves. These epigenetic modifications appear to perpetuate the damage caused by persistently elevated glucose levels even in their absence, acting at various levels, mostly affecting the molecular processes of diabetic ulcer healing. METHODS The aim of our cross-sectional study was to analyse a cohort of patients with diabetes with and without lower limb ulcers. We examined the effects of epigenetic changes on miRNA 126, 305, and 217 expression and the frequency of the SNPs of genes encoding inflammatory molecules (e.g., IL-6 and TNF-alpha) and their correlations with serum levels of proangiogenic molecules (e.g., ENOS, VEGF and HIF-1alpha) and several adipokines as well as with endothelial dysfunction, assessed noninvasively by reactive hyperaemia peripheral artery tonometry. Between March 2021 and June 2022, 110 patients were enrolled into the study: 50 diabetic patients with diabetic foot injuries, 40 diabetic patients without ulcerative complications and 20 nondiabetic patients as the control group. RESULTS Diabetic subjects with lower limb ulcerative lesions exhibited higher levels of inflammatory cytokines, such as VEGF (191.40 ± 200 pg/mL vs. 98.27 ± 56.92 pg/mL vs. 71.01 ± 52.96 pg/mL; p = 0.22), HIF-1alpha (40.18 ± 10.80 ng/mL vs. 33.50 ± 6.16 ng/mL vs. 33.85 ± 6.84 ng/mL; p = 0.10), and Gremlin-1 (1.72 ± 0.512 ng/mL vs. 1.31 ± 0.21 ng/mL vs. 1.11 ± 0.19 ng/mL; p < 0.0005), than those without lower limb ulcers and healthy controls. Furthermore, we observed that miR-217-5p and miR-503-5p were 2.19-fold (p < 0.05) and 6.21-fold (p = 0.001) more highly expressed in diabetic foot patients than in healthy controls, respectively. Additionally, diabetic patients without lower limb ulcerative complications showed 2.41-fold (p = 0) and 2.24-fold (p = 0.029) higher expression of miR-217-5p and miR-503-5p, respectively, than healthy controls. Finally, diabetic patients with and without ulcerative complications of the lower limbs showed higher expression of the VEGFC2578A CC polymorphism (p = 0.001) and lower expression of the VEGFC2578A AC polymorphism (p < 0.005) than the healthy control population. We observed a significant increase in Gremlin-1 levels in patients with diabetic foot, suggesting that this inflammatory adipokine may serve as a predictive marker for the diagnosis of diabetic foot. CONCLUSIONS Our results highlighted that patients with diabetic foot showed predominant expression of the VEGF C2578A CC polymorphism and reduced expression of the AC allele. Additionally, we found an overexpression of miR-217-5p and miR-503-5p in diabetic patients with and without diabetic foot syndrome compared with healthy controls. These results align with those reported in the literature, in which the overexpression of miR-217-5p and miR-503-5p in the context of diabetic foot is reported. The identification of these epigenetic modifications could therefore be helpful in the early diagnosis of diabetic foot and the treatment of risk factors. However, further studies are necessary to confirm this hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Del Cuore
- Department of Promoting Health, Maternal-Infant, Excellence and Internal and Specialized Medicine (PROMISE) G. D'Alessandro, University of Palermo, Piazza Delle Cliniche N.2, 90127, Palermo, Italy
- Internal Medicine and Stroke Care Ward, Policlinico "P. Giaccone", Palermo, Italy
| | - Rosaria Maria Pipitone
- Department of Promoting Health, Maternal-Infant, Excellence and Internal and Specialized Medicine (PROMISE) G. D'Alessandro, University of Palermo, Piazza Delle Cliniche N.2, 90127, Palermo, Italy
| | - Alessandra Casuccio
- Department of Promoting Health, Maternal-Infant, Excellence and Internal and Specialized Medicine (PROMISE) G. D'Alessandro, University of Palermo, Piazza Delle Cliniche N.2, 90127, Palermo, Italy
| | - Marco Maria Mazzola
- Department of Promoting Health, Maternal-Infant, Excellence and Internal and Specialized Medicine (PROMISE) G. D'Alessandro, University of Palermo, Piazza Delle Cliniche N.2, 90127, Palermo, Italy
- Internal Medicine and Stroke Care Ward, Policlinico "P. Giaccone", Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Puleo
- Department of Promoting Health, Maternal-Infant, Excellence and Internal and Specialized Medicine (PROMISE) G. D'Alessandro, University of Palermo, Piazza Delle Cliniche N.2, 90127, Palermo, Italy
- Internal Medicine and Stroke Care Ward, Policlinico "P. Giaccone", Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetano Pacinella
- Department of Promoting Health, Maternal-Infant, Excellence and Internal and Specialized Medicine (PROMISE) G. D'Alessandro, University of Palermo, Piazza Delle Cliniche N.2, 90127, Palermo, Italy
- Internal Medicine and Stroke Care Ward, Policlinico "P. Giaccone", Palermo, Italy
| | - Renata Riolo
- Department of Promoting Health, Maternal-Infant, Excellence and Internal and Specialized Medicine (PROMISE) G. D'Alessandro, University of Palermo, Piazza Delle Cliniche N.2, 90127, Palermo, Italy
- Internal Medicine and Stroke Care Ward, Policlinico "P. Giaccone", Palermo, Italy
| | - Carlo Maida
- Department of Promoting Health, Maternal-Infant, Excellence and Internal and Specialized Medicine (PROMISE) G. D'Alessandro, University of Palermo, Piazza Delle Cliniche N.2, 90127, Palermo, Italy
- Internal Medicine and Stroke Care Ward, Policlinico "P. Giaccone", Palermo, Italy
| | - Tiziana Di Chiara
- Department of Promoting Health, Maternal-Infant, Excellence and Internal and Specialized Medicine (PROMISE) G. D'Alessandro, University of Palermo, Piazza Delle Cliniche N.2, 90127, Palermo, Italy
- Internal Medicine and Stroke Care Ward, Policlinico "P. Giaccone", Palermo, Italy
| | - Domenico Di Raimondo
- Department of Promoting Health, Maternal-Infant, Excellence and Internal and Specialized Medicine (PROMISE) G. D'Alessandro, University of Palermo, Piazza Delle Cliniche N.2, 90127, Palermo, Italy
- Internal Medicine and Stroke Care Ward, Policlinico "P. Giaccone", Palermo, Italy
| | - Rossella Zito
- Department of Promoting Health, Maternal-Infant, Excellence and Internal and Specialized Medicine (PROMISE) G. D'Alessandro, University of Palermo, Piazza Delle Cliniche N.2, 90127, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giulia Lupo
- Department of Promoting Health, Maternal-Infant, Excellence and Internal and Specialized Medicine (PROMISE) G. D'Alessandro, University of Palermo, Piazza Delle Cliniche N.2, 90127, Palermo, Italy
| | - Luisa Agnello
- Institute of Clinical Biochemistry, Clinical Molecular Medicine and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences, and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Gabriele Di Maria
- Department of Promoting Health, Maternal-Infant, Excellence and Internal and Specialized Medicine (PROMISE) G. D'Alessandro, University of Palermo, Piazza Delle Cliniche N.2, 90127, Palermo, Italy
| | - Marcello Ciaccio
- Institute of Clinical Biochemistry, Clinical Molecular Medicine and Laboratory Medicine, Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences, and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Stefania Grimaudo
- Department of Promoting Health, Maternal-Infant, Excellence and Internal and Specialized Medicine (PROMISE) G. D'Alessandro, University of Palermo, Piazza Delle Cliniche N.2, 90127, Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonino Tuttolomondo
- Department of Promoting Health, Maternal-Infant, Excellence and Internal and Specialized Medicine (PROMISE) G. D'Alessandro, University of Palermo, Piazza Delle Cliniche N.2, 90127, Palermo, Italy.
- Internal Medicine and Stroke Care Ward, Policlinico "P. Giaccone", Palermo, Italy.
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Grillo E, Ravelli C, Colleluori G, D'Agostino F, Domenichini M, Giordano A, Mitola S. Role of gremlin-1 in the pathophysiology of the adipose tissues. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2023; 69:51-60. [PMID: 36155165 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2022.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Gremlin-1 is a secreted bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) antagonist playing a pivotal role in the regulation of tissue formation and embryonic development. Since its first identification in 1997, gremlin-1 has been shown to be a multifunctional factor involved in wound healing, inflammation, cancer and tissue fibrosis. Among others, the activity of gremlin-1 is mediated by its interaction with BMPs or with membrane receptors such as the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) or heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs). Growing evidence has highlighted a central role of gremlin-1 in the homeostasis of the adipose tissue (AT). Of note, gremlin-1 is involved in AT dysfunction during type 2 diabetes, obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) metabolic disorders. In this review we discuss recent findings on gremlin-1 involvement in AT biology, with particular attention to its role in metabolic diseases, to highlight its potential as a prognostic marker and therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Grillo
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Cosetta Ravelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Georgia Colleluori
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Tronto 10/A, 60020 Ancona, Italy
| | - Francesco D'Agostino
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Mattia Domenichini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Antonio Giordano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Tronto 10/A, 60020 Ancona, Italy
| | - Stefania Mitola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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5
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Arricca M, Salvadori A, Bonanno C, Serpelloni M. Modeling Receptor Motility along Advecting Lipid Membranes. MEMBRANES 2022; 12:membranes12070652. [PMID: 35877855 PMCID: PMC9317916 DOI: 10.3390/membranes12070652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
This work aims to overview multiphysics mechanobiological computational models for receptor dynamics along advecting cell membranes. Continuum and statistical models of receptor motility are the two main modeling methodologies identified in reviewing the state of the art. Within the former modeling class, a further subdivision based on different biological purposes and processes of proteins’ motion is recognized; cell adhesion, cell contractility, endocytosis, and receptor relocations on advecting membranes are the most relevant biological processes identified in which receptor motility is pivotal. Numerical and/or experimental methods and approaches are highlighted in the exposure of the reviewed works provided by the literature, pertinent to the topic of the present manuscript. With a main focus on the continuum models of receptor motility, we discuss appropriate multiphyisics laws to model the mass flux of receptor proteins in the reproduction of receptor relocation and recruitment along cell membranes to describe receptor–ligand chemical interactions, and the cell’s structural response. The mass flux of receptor modeling is further supported by a discussion on the methodology utilized to evaluate the protein diffusion coefficient developed over the years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Arricca
- The Mechanobiology Research Center, University of Brescia (UNIBS), 25123 Brescia, Italy; (M.A.); (C.B.); (M.S.)
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Università degli Studi di Brescia, via Branze 38, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Alberto Salvadori
- The Mechanobiology Research Center, University of Brescia (UNIBS), 25123 Brescia, Italy; (M.A.); (C.B.); (M.S.)
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Università degli Studi di Brescia, via Branze 38, 25123 Brescia, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Claudia Bonanno
- The Mechanobiology Research Center, University of Brescia (UNIBS), 25123 Brescia, Italy; (M.A.); (C.B.); (M.S.)
- Department of Civil, Environmental, Architectural Engineering and Mathematics, Università degli Studi di Brescia, via Branze 43, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Mattia Serpelloni
- The Mechanobiology Research Center, University of Brescia (UNIBS), 25123 Brescia, Italy; (M.A.); (C.B.); (M.S.)
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Università degli Studi di Brescia, via Branze 38, 25123 Brescia, Italy
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Elemam NM, Malek AI, Mahmoud EE, El-Huneidi W, Talaat IM. Insights into the Role of Gremlin-1, a Bone Morphogenic Protein Antagonist, in Cancer Initiation and Progression. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020301. [PMID: 35203511 PMCID: PMC8869528 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The bone morphogenic protein (BMP) antagonist Gremlin-1 is a biologically significant regulator known for its crucial role in tissue differentiation and embryonic development. Nevertheless, it has been reported that Gremlin-1 can exhibit its function through BMP dependent and independent pathways. Gremlin-1 has also been reported to be involved in organ fibrosis, which has been correlated to the development of other diseases, such as renal inflammation and diabetic nephropathy. Based on growing evidence, Gremlin-1 has recently been implicated in the initiation and progression of different types of cancers. Further, it contributes to the stemness state of cancer cells. Herein, we explore the recent findings on the role of Gremlin-1 in various cancer types, including breast, cervical, colorectal, and gastric cancers, as well as glioblastomas. Additionally, we highlighted the impact of Gremlin-1 on cellular processes and signaling pathways involved in carcinogenesis. Therefore, it was suggested that Gremlin-1 might be a promising prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noha Mousaad Elemam
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; (N.M.E.); (A.I.M.); (E.E.M.)
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Abdullah Imadeddin Malek
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; (N.M.E.); (A.I.M.); (E.E.M.)
| | - Esraa Elaraby Mahmoud
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; (N.M.E.); (A.I.M.); (E.E.M.)
| | - Waseem El-Huneidi
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; (N.M.E.); (A.I.M.); (E.E.M.)
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Correspondence: (W.E.-H.); (I.M.T.)
| | - Iman M. Talaat
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; (N.M.E.); (A.I.M.); (E.E.M.)
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21526, Egypt
- Correspondence: (W.E.-H.); (I.M.T.)
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Mitola S, Ravelli C, Corsini M, Gianoncelli A, Galvagni F, Ballmer-Hofer K, Presta M, Grillo E. Production and Biochemical Characterization of Dimeric Recombinant Gremlin-1. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031151. [PMID: 35163075 PMCID: PMC8835488 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Gremlin-1 is a secreted cystine-knot protein that acts as an antagonist of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), and as a ligand of heparin and the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2), thus regulating several physiological and pathological processes, including embryonic development, tissue fibrosis and cancer. Gremlin-1 exerts all these biological activities only in its homodimeric form. Here, we propose a multi-step approach for the expression and purification of homodimeric, fully active, histidine-tagged recombinant gremlin-1, using mammalian HEK293T cells. Ion metal affinity chromatography (IMAC) of crude supernatant followed by heparin-affinity chromatography enables obtaining a highly pure recombinant dimeric gremlin-1 protein, exhibiting both BMP antagonist and potent VEGFR2 agonist activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Mitola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.R.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.P.)
- Correspondence: (S.M.); (E.G.)
| | - Cosetta Ravelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.R.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.P.)
| | - Michela Corsini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.R.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.P.)
| | - Alessandra Gianoncelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.R.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.P.)
| | - Federico Galvagni
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Kurt Ballmer-Hofer
- Biomolecular Research, Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland;
| | - Marco Presta
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.R.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.P.)
| | - Elisabetta Grillo
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (C.R.); (M.C.); (A.G.); (M.P.)
- Correspondence: (S.M.); (E.G.)
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8
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The BMP Pathway in Blood Vessel and Lymphatic Vessel Biology. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126364. [PMID: 34198654 PMCID: PMC8232321 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) were originally identified as the active components in bone extracts that can induce ectopic bone formation. In recent decades, their key role has broadly expanded beyond bone physiology and pathology. Nowadays, the BMP pathway is considered an important player in vascular signaling. Indeed, mutations in genes encoding different components of the BMP pathway cause various severe vascular diseases. Their signaling contributes to the morphological, functional and molecular heterogeneity among endothelial cells in different vessel types such as arteries, veins, lymphatic vessels and capillaries within different organs. The BMP pathway is a remarkably fine-tuned pathway. As a result, its signaling output in the vessel wall critically depends on the cellular context, which includes flow hemodynamics, interplay with other vascular signaling cascades and the interaction of endothelial cells with peri-endothelial cells and the surrounding matrix. In this review, the emerging role of BMP signaling in lymphatic vessel biology will be highlighted within the framework of BMP signaling in the circulatory vasculature.
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Bonetti J, Corti A, Lerouge L, Pompella A, Gaucher C. Phenotypic Modulation of Macrophages and Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells in Atherosclerosis-Nitro-Redox Interconnections. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10040516. [PMID: 33810295 PMCID: PMC8066740 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10040516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Monocytes/macrophages and vascular smooth muscle cells (vSMCs) are the main cell types implicated in atherosclerosis development, and unlike other mature cell types, both retain a remarkable plasticity. In mature vessels, differentiated vSMCs control the vascular tone and the blood pressure. In response to vascular injury and modifications of the local environment (inflammation, oxidative stress), vSMCs switch from a contractile to a secretory phenotype and also display macrophagic markers expression and a macrophagic behaviour. Endothelial dysfunction promotes adhesion to the endothelium of monocytes, which infiltrate the sub-endothelium and differentiate into macrophages. The latter become polarised into M1 (pro-inflammatory), M2 (anti-inflammatory) or Mox macrophages (oxidative stress phenotype). Both monocyte-derived macrophages and macrophage-like vSMCs are able to internalise and accumulate oxLDL, leading to formation of “foam cells” within atherosclerotic plaques. Variations in the levels of nitric oxide (NO) can affect several of the molecular pathways implicated in the described phenomena. Elucidation of the underlying mechanisms could help to identify novel specific therapeutic targets, but to date much remains to be explored. The present article is an overview of the different factors and signalling pathways implicated in plaque formation and of the effects of NO on the molecular steps of the phenotypic switch of macrophages and vSMCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine Bonetti
- CITHEFOR, Université de Lorraine, F-54000 Nancy, France; (J.B.); (L.L.); (C.G.)
| | - Alessandro Corti
- Department of Translational Research NTMS, University of Pisa Medical School, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Lucie Lerouge
- CITHEFOR, Université de Lorraine, F-54000 Nancy, France; (J.B.); (L.L.); (C.G.)
| | - Alfonso Pompella
- Department of Translational Research NTMS, University of Pisa Medical School, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-050-2218-537
| | - Caroline Gaucher
- CITHEFOR, Université de Lorraine, F-54000 Nancy, France; (J.B.); (L.L.); (C.G.)
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10
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Popovic N, Hooker E, Barabino A, Flamier A, Provost F, Buscarlet M, Bernier G, Larrivée B. COCO/DAND5 inhibits developmental and pathological ocular angiogenesis. EMBO Mol Med 2021; 13:e12005. [PMID: 33587337 PMCID: PMC7933934 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202012005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Neovascularization contributes to multiple visual disorders including age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and retinopathy of prematurity. Current therapies for treating ocular angiogenesis are centered on the inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). While clinically effective, some AMD patients are refractory or develop resistance to anti-VEGF therapies and concerns of increased risks of developing geographic atrophy following long-term treatment have been raised. Identification of alternative pathways to inhibit pathological angiogenesis is thus important. We have identified a novel inhibitor of angiogenesis, COCO, a member of the Cerberus-related DAN protein family. We demonstrate that COCO inhibits sprouting, migration and cellular proliferation of cultured endothelial cells. Intravitreal injections of COCO inhibited retinal vascularization during development and in models of retinopathy of prematurity. COCO equally abrogated angiogenesis in models of choroidal neovascularization. Mechanistically, COCO inhibited TGFβ and BMP pathways and altered energy metabolism and redox balance of endothelial cells. Together, these data show that COCO is an inhibitor of retinal and choroidal angiogenesis, possibly representing a therapeutic option for the treatment of neovascular ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalija Popovic
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity of MontrealMontrealQCCanada
- Hôpital Maisonneuve Rosemont Research CentreMontrealQCCanada
| | - Erika Hooker
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity of MontrealMontrealQCCanada
- Hôpital Maisonneuve Rosemont Research CentreMontrealQCCanada
| | - Andrea Barabino
- Hôpital Maisonneuve Rosemont Research CentreMontrealQCCanada
- Department of NeurosciencesUniversity of MontrealMontrealQCCanada
| | - Anthony Flamier
- Hôpital Maisonneuve Rosemont Research CentreMontrealQCCanada
- Department of NeurosciencesUniversity of MontrealMontrealQCCanada
- Present address:
Whitehead Institute of Biomedical ResearchCambridgeMAUSA
| | | | | | - Gilbert Bernier
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity of MontrealMontrealQCCanada
- Hôpital Maisonneuve Rosemont Research CentreMontrealQCCanada
- Department of NeurosciencesUniversity of MontrealMontrealQCCanada
| | - Bruno Larrivée
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity of MontrealMontrealQCCanada
- Hôpital Maisonneuve Rosemont Research CentreMontrealQCCanada
- Department of OphthalmologyUniversity of MontrealMontrealQCCanada
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11
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Khatib Shahidi R, M Hoffmann J, Hedjazifar S, Bonnet L, K Baboota R, Heasman S, Church C, Elias I, Bosch F, Boucher J, Hammarstedt A, Smith U. Adult mice are unresponsive to AAV8-Gremlin1 gene therapy targeting the liver. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0247300. [PMID: 33606810 PMCID: PMC7895349 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Gremlin 1 (GREM1) is a secreted BMP2/4 inhibitor which regulates commitment and differentiation of human adipose precursor cells and prevents the browning effect of BMP4. GREM1 is an insulin antagonist and serum levels are high in type 2 diabetes (T2D). We here examined in vivo effects of AAV8 (Adeno-Associated Viral vectors of serotype eight) GREM 1 targeting the liver in mature mice to increase its systemic secretion and also, in a separate study, injected recombinant GREM 1 intraperitoneally. The objective was to characterize systemic effects of GREM 1 on insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance, body weight, adipose cell browning and other local tissue effects. Methods Adult mice were injected with AAV8 vectors expressing GREM1 in the liver or receiving regular intra-peritoneal injections of recombinant GREM1 protein. The mice were fed with a low fat or high fat diet (HFD) and followed over time. Results Liver-targeted AAV8-GREM1 did not alter body weight, whole-body glucose and insulin tolerance, or adipose tissue gene expression. Although GREM1 protein accumulated in liver cells, GREM1 serum levels were not increased suggesting that it may not have been normally processed for secretion. Hepatic lipid accumulation, inflammation and fibrosis were also not changed. Repeated intraperitoneal rec-GREM1 injections for 5 weeks were also without effects on body weight and insulin sensitivity. UCP1 was slightly but significantly reduced in both white and brown adipose tissue but this was not of sufficient magnitude to alter body weight. We validated that recombinant GREM1 inhibited BMP4-induced pSMAD1/5/9 in murine cells in vitro, but saw no direct inhibitory effect on insulin signalling and pAkt (ser 473 and thr 308) activation. Conclusion GREM1 accumulates intracellularly when overexpressed in the liver cells of mature mice and is apparently not normally processed/secreted. However, also repeated intraperitoneal injections were without effects on body weight and insulin sensitivity and adipose tissue UCP1 levels were only marginally reduced. These results suggest that mature mice do not readily respond to GREMLIN 1 but treatment of murine cells with GREMLIN 1 protein in vitro validated its inhibitory effect on BMP4 signalling while insulin signalling was not altered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxana Khatib Shahidi
- The Lundberg Laboratory for Diabetes Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jenny M Hoffmann
- The Lundberg Laboratory for Diabetes Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Shahram Hedjazifar
- The Lundberg Laboratory for Diabetes Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Laurianne Bonnet
- The Lundberg Laboratory for Diabetes Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Wallenberg Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ritesh K Baboota
- The Lundberg Laboratory for Diabetes Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Stephanie Heasman
- Bioscience Metabolism, Research and Early Development, Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism (CVRM), BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher Church
- Bioscience Metabolism, Research and Early Development, Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism (CVRM), BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Ivet Elias
- Center of Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM)
| | - Fatima Bosch
- Center of Animal Biotechnology and Gene Therapy and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM)
| | - Jeremie Boucher
- The Lundberg Laboratory for Diabetes Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Wallenberg Center for Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Bioscience Metabolism, Research and Early Development, Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism (CVRM), BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ann Hammarstedt
- The Lundberg Laboratory for Diabetes Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ulf Smith
- The Lundberg Laboratory for Diabetes Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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12
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Construction and Validation of a Robust Cancer Stem Cell-Associated Gene Set-Based Signature to Predict Early Biochemical Recurrence in Prostate Cancer. DISEASE MARKERS 2020; 2020:8860788. [PMID: 33101546 PMCID: PMC7569422 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8860788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Postoperative early biochemical recurrence (BCR) was an essential indicator for recurrence and distant metastasis of prostate cancer (PCa). The aim of this study was to construct a cancer stem cell- (CSC-) associated gene set-based signature to identify a subgroup of PCa patients who are at high risk of early BCR. Methods The PCa dataset from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) was randomly separated into discovery and validation set. Patients in discovery set were divided into early BCR group and long-term survival group. Propensity score matching analysis and differentially expressed gene selection were used to identify candidate CSC-associated genes. The LASSO Cox regression model was finally performed to filter the most useful prognostic CSC-associated genes for predicting early BCR. Results By applying the LASSO Cox regression model, we built a thirteen-CSC-associated gene-based early BCR-predicting signature. In the discovery set, patients in high-risk group showed significantly poorer BCR free survival than that patients in low-risk group (HR: 4.91, 95% CI: 2.75–8.76, P < 0.001). The results were further validated in the internal validation set (HR: 2.99, 95% CI: 1.34–6.70, P = 0.005). Time-dependent ROC at 1 year suggested that the CSC gene signature (AUC = 0.800) possessed better predictive value than any other clinicopathological features in the entire TCGA cohort. Additionally, survival decision curve analysis revealed a considerable clinical usefulness of the CSC gene signature. Conclusions We successfully developed a CSC-associated gene set-based signature that can accurately predict early BCR in PCa cancer.
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13
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Todd GM, Gao Z, Hyvönen M, Brazil DP, Ten Dijke P. Secreted BMP antagonists and their role in cancer and bone metastases. Bone 2020; 137:115455. [PMID: 32473315 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2020.115455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are multifunctional secreted cytokines that act in a highly context-dependent manner. BMP action extends beyond the induction of cartilage and bone formation, to encompass pivotal roles in controlling tissue and organ homeostasis during development and adulthood. BMPs signal via plasma membrane type I and type II serine/threonine kinase receptors and intracellular SMAD transcriptional effectors. Exquisite temporospatial control of BMP/SMAD signalling and crosstalk with other cellular cues is achieved by a series of positive and negative regulators at each step in the BMP/SMAD pathway. The interaction of BMP ligand with its receptors is carefully controlled by a diverse set of secreted antagonists that bind BMPs and block their interaction with their cognate BMP receptors. Perturbations in this BMP/BMP antagonist balance are implicated in a range of developmental disorders and diseases, including cancer. Here, we provide an overview of the structure and function of secreted BMP antagonists, and summarize recent novel insights into their role in cancer progression and bone metastasis. Gremlin1 (GREM1) is a highly studied BMP antagonist, and we will focus on this molecule in particular and its role in cancer. The therapeutic potential of pharmacological inhibitors for secreted BMP antagonists for cancer and other human diseases will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace M Todd
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Zhichun Gao
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Marko Hyvönen
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, 80 Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1GA, UK.
| | - Derek P Brazil
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK.
| | - Peter Ten Dijke
- Oncode Institute, Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands.
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14
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Ouahoud S, Hardwick JC, Hawinkels LJ. Extracellular BMP Antagonists, Multifaceted Orchestrators in the Tumor and Its Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21113888. [PMID: 32486027 PMCID: PMC7313454 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), a subgroup of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily, are involved in multiple biological processes such as embryonic development and maintenance of adult tissue homeostasis. The importance of a functional BMP pathway is underlined by various diseases, including cancer, which can arise as a consequence of dysregulated BMP signaling. Mutations in crucial elements of this signaling pathway, such as receptors, have been reported to disrupt BMP signaling. Next to that, aberrant expression of BMP antagonists could also contribute to abrogated signaling. In this review we set out to highlight how BMP antagonists affect not only the cancer cells, but also the other cells present in the microenvironment to influence cancer progression.
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15
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Qin D, Jin X, Jiang Y. Gremlin mediates the TGF-β-induced induction of profibrogenic genes in human retinal pigment epithelial cells. Exp Ther Med 2020; 19:2353-2359. [PMID: 32104303 PMCID: PMC7027231 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2020.8463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) is characterised by the contraction and growth of fibrotic membranes on the retina and within the vitreous body. Retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells, a major cellular component of the fibrotic membrane, is one of the cell types that have been previously reported to associate with PVR pathogenesis. During PVR, RPE cells undergo increased cell proliferation, migration and the secretion of extracellular matrix molecules, such as fibronectin and type I collagen. A variety of cytokines and growth factors are involved in the formation of the fibrotic membrane. Although gremlin has been reported to serve an important role in the regulation of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in PVR, the relationship between gremlin and the expression of profibrogenic factors in human RPE cells remains unclear. In the present study, gremlin promoted RPE cell proliferation and the expression of type I collagen and fibronectin. In addition, knocking down gremlin expression by siRNA significantly suppressed the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1- and TGF-β2-induced expression of type I collagen and fibronectin in RPE cells. These findings suggest that gremlin may serve an important role in the development of PVR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Qin
- Henan Eye Institute, Henan Provincial Eye Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, P.R. China
| | - Xuemin Jin
- Henan Eye Institute, Henan Provincial Eye Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, P.R. China
| | - Yanrong Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100044, P.R. China
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16
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Marquez-Exposito L, Cantero-Navarro E, R Rodrigues-Diez R, Orejudo M, Tejera-Muñoz A, Tejedor L, Rayego-Mateos S, Rández-Carbayo J, Santos-Sanchez L, Mezzano S, Lavoz C, Ruiz-Ortega M. Molecular Regulation of Notch Signaling by Gremlin. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1227:81-94. [PMID: 32072500 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-36422-9_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Gremlin is a member of the TGF-β superfamily that can act as a BMP antagonist, and recently, has been described as a ligand of the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2). Gremlin shares properties with the Notch signaling pathway. Both participate in embryonic development and are reactivated in pathological conditions. Gremlin is emerging as a potential therapeutic target and biomarker of renal diseases. Here we review the role of the Gremlin-VEGFR2 axis in renal damage and downstream signaling mechanisms, such as Notch pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Marquez-Exposito
- Cellular and Molecular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Cantero-Navarro
- Cellular and Molecular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Raúl R Rodrigues-Diez
- Cellular and Molecular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Macarena Orejudo
- Cellular and Molecular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Tejera-Muñoz
- Cellular and Molecular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Lucia Tejedor
- Cellular and Molecular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Sandra Rayego-Mateos
- Cellular and Molecular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Vascular and Renal Translational Research Group, Institut de Recerca Biomèdica de Lleida IRBLleida, Lleida, Spain
| | - Javier Rández-Carbayo
- Cellular and Molecular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Santos-Sanchez
- Cellular and Molecular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Madrid, Spain
| | - Sergio Mezzano
- Division of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Carolina Lavoz
- Division of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Marta Ruiz-Ortega
- Cellular and Molecular Biology in Renal and Vascular Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain. .,Red de Investigación Renal (REDINREN), Madrid, Spain.
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17
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Qin D, Jiang YR, Meng Z. Gremlin in the Vitreous of Patients with Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy and the Downregulation of Gremlin in Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells. J Diabetes Res 2020; 2020:9238742. [PMID: 32377526 PMCID: PMC7180400 DOI: 10.1155/2020/9238742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most common causes of blindness globally. Proliferative DR (PDR), an advanced stage of DR, is characterized by the formation of fibrotic membranes at the vitreoretinal interface. The proliferation, migration, and secretion of extracellular matrix molecules in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells contribute to the formation of fibrotic membranes in PDR. Gremlin has been reported to be upregulated in response to elevated glucose levels in the retina of diabetic rat and bovine pericytes. However, the role of gremlin in PDR remains unclear. In the present study, the vitreous concentrations of gremlin were significantly higher in the PDR (67.79 ± 33.96) group than in the control (45.31 ± 12.31) group, and high glucose levels induced the expression of gremlin in RPE cells. The elevated expression of extracellular matrix molecules, such as fibronectin and collagen IV, was significantly reduced by gremlin siRNA in human RPE cells under high-glucose conditions. Thus, gremlin may play a vital role in the development of PDR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Qin
- Henan Eye Institute, Henan Provincial Eye Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yan-rong Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Zijun Meng
- Henan Eye Institute, Henan Provincial Eye Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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18
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Di Somma M, Schaafsma W, Grillo E, Vliora M, Dakou E, Corsini M, Ravelli C, Ronca R, Sakellariou P, Vanparijs J, Castro B, Mitola S. Natural Histogel-Based Bio-Scaffolds for Sustaining Angiogenesis in Beige Adipose Tissue. Cells 2019; 8:cells8111457. [PMID: 31752157 PMCID: PMC6912328 DOI: 10.3390/cells8111457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In the treatment of obesity and its related disorders, one of the measures adopted is weight reduction by controlling nutrition and increasing physical activity. A valid alternative to restore the physiological function of the human body could be the increase of energy consumption by inducing the browning of adipose tissue. To this purpose, we tested the ability of Histogel, a natural mixture of glycosaminoglycans isolated from animal Wharton jelly, to sustain the differentiation of adipose derived mesenchymal cells (ADSCs) into brown-like cells expressing UCP-1. Differentiated cells show a higher energy metabolism compared to undifferentiated mesenchymal cells. Furthermore, Histogel acts as a pro-angiogenic matrix, induces endothelial cell proliferation and sprouting in a three-dimensional gel in vitro, and stimulates neovascularization when applied in vivo on top of the chicken embryo chorioallantoic membrane or injected subcutaneously in mice. In addition to the pro-angiogenic activity of Histogel, also the ADSC derived beige cells contribute to activating endothelial cells. These data led us to propose Histogel as a promising scaffold for the modulation of the thermogenic behavior of adipose tissue. Indeed, Histogel simultaneously supports the acquisition of brown tissue markers and activates the vasculature process necessary for the correct function of the thermogenic tissue. Thus, Histogel represents a valid candidate for the development of bioscaffolds to increase the amount of brown adipose tissue in patients with metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margherita Di Somma
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy; (M.D.S.); (E.G.); (M.V.); (M.C.); (C.R.); (R.R.)
| | - Wandert Schaafsma
- Histocell, S.L.Parque Tecnológico 801A, 2o 48160 Derio—BIZKAIA, Spain; (W.S.); (B.C.)
| | - Elisabetta Grillo
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy; (M.D.S.); (E.G.); (M.V.); (M.C.); (C.R.); (R.R.)
| | - Maria Vliora
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy; (M.D.S.); (E.G.); (M.V.); (M.C.); (C.R.); (R.R.)
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, 38221 Trikala, Greece;
| | - Eleni Dakou
- Laboratory of Cell Genetics, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Michela Corsini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy; (M.D.S.); (E.G.); (M.V.); (M.C.); (C.R.); (R.R.)
| | - Cosetta Ravelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy; (M.D.S.); (E.G.); (M.V.); (M.C.); (C.R.); (R.R.)
| | - Roberto Ronca
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy; (M.D.S.); (E.G.); (M.V.); (M.C.); (C.R.); (R.R.)
| | - Paraskevi Sakellariou
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, 38221 Trikala, Greece;
| | - Jef Vanparijs
- Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Physical Education and Physical Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Begona Castro
- Histocell, S.L.Parque Tecnológico 801A, 2o 48160 Derio—BIZKAIA, Spain; (W.S.); (B.C.)
| | - Stefania Mitola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy; (M.D.S.); (E.G.); (M.V.); (M.C.); (C.R.); (R.R.)
- Correspondence:
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19
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Dutton LR, O'Neill CL, Medina RJ, Brazil DP. No evidence of Gremlin1-mediated activation of VEGFR2 signaling in endothelial cells. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:18041-18045. [PMID: 31604823 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ac119.010148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Canonical Gremlin1 (GREM1) signaling involves binding to and sequestering bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) in the extracellular matrix, preventing the activation of cognate BMP receptor. Exquisite temporospatial control of the GREM1-BMP interaction is required during development, and perturbation of this balance leads to abnormal limb formation and defective kidney development. In addition to inhibition of BMP signaling, several other noncanonical signaling modalities of GREM1 have been postulated. Some literature reports have suggested that GREM1 can bind to and activate vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR2) in endothelial cells, human kidney epithelial cells, and others. These reports suggest that the GREM1 → VEGFR2 signaling can drive angiogenesis both in vitro and in vivo We report here that, despite exhaustive attempts, we did not observe GREM1 activation of VEGFR2 in any of the cell lines reported by the above-mentioned studies. Incubation of endothelial colony-forming cells (ECFCs) or human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) with recombinant VEGF triggered a robust increase in VEGFR2 tyrosine phosphorylation. In contrast, no VEGFR2 phosphorylation was detected when cells were incubated with recombinant GREM1 over a range of time points and concentrations. We also show that GREM1 does not interfere with VEGF-mediated VEGFR2 activation, suggesting that GREM1 does not bind with any great affinity to VEGFR2. Measurements of ECFC barrier integrity revealed that VEGF induces barrier function disruption, but recombinant human GREM1 had no effect in this assay. We believe that these results provide an important clarification of the potential interaction between GREM1 and VEGFR2 in mammalian cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise R Dutton
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Christina L O'Neill
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Reinhold J Medina
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Derek P Brazil
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom.
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20
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Gu Q, Luo Y, Chen C, Jiang D, Huang Q, Wang X. GREM1 overexpression inhibits proliferation, migration and angiogenesis of osteosarcoma. Exp Cell Res 2019; 384:111619. [PMID: 31525341 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2019.111619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2019] [Revised: 08/31/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Osteosarcoma is the most common malignancy of bone that occurs in young adults and children, with a five-year survival rate of 60-70%. Metastasis of osteosarcoma maintains an even poorer prognosis. GREM1 plays an important role in regulating organogenesis, body patterning, and tissue differentiation. However, there are limited studies on GREM1 in osteosarcomas. This study was carried out to characterize the expression and function of GREM1 in osteosarcoma cells, thus extending our understanding of osteosarcoma metastasis. GREM1 expression was detected in hBMSC, hFOB1.19, Saos-2, MG63 and U2OS cell lines using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot analysis. Gain- and loss-of-function approaches were used to assess the biological function of GREM1 in U2OS cells. The effects of GREM1 on U2OS cell proliferation were examined using the CCK-8 and colony formation assay. Migration and invasion ability were confirmed by the wound healing and Transwell assay, respectively. Flow cytometry was used to analyse the effect of GREM1 on the cell cycle and apoptosis. The expression of GREM1 targets was evaluated by qRT-PCR and western blotting. The expression of GREM1 was significantly downregulated in osteosarcoma. GREM1 overexpression inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of U2OS cells. GREM1 overexpression suppressed tumour cell-induced endothelial cell migration and invasion ability. The effect of GREM1 may be transduced through regulation of the BMP target transcription factor inhibitor of MMP-2 and -9 as well as Id1. GREM1 overexpression and knockdown regulates the tumorigenesis of osteosarcoma in vivo. In conclusion, GREM1 is downregulated in osteosarcoma cells, and overexpression of GREM1 inhibits the proliferation, migration, invasion and angiogenesis abilities of osteosarcoma cells in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingguo Gu
- Department of Orthopedic Oncology, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Yibin Luo
- Department of Orthopedics, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Cheng Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai University of Medicine &health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, China
| | - Dongjie Jiang
- Department of Orthopedic Oncology, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, China.
| | - Quan Huang
- Department of Orthopedic Oncology, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, China.
| | - Xinwei Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, China.
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21
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Mezzano S, Droguett A, Lavoz C, Krall P, Egido J, Ruiz-Ortega M. Gremlin and renal diseases: ready to jump the fence to clinical utility? Nephrol Dial Transplant 2019; 33:735-741. [PMID: 28992340 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfx194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The current therapeutic strategy for the treatment of chronic kidney diseases only ameliorates disease progression. During renal injury, developmental genes are re-expressed and could be potential therapeutic targets. Among those genes reactivated in the adult damaged kidney, Gremlin is of particular relevance since recent data suggest that it could be a mediator of diabetic nephropathy and other progressive renal diseases. Earlier studies have shown that Gremlin is upregulated in trans-differentiated renal proximal tubular cells and in several chronic kidney diseases associated with fibrosis. However, not much was known about the mechanisms by which Gremlin acts in renal pathophysiology. The role of Gremlin as a bone morphogenetic protein antagonist has clearly been demonstrated in organogenesis and in fibrotic-related disorders. Gremlin binds to vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) in endothelial and tubular epithelial cells. Activation of the Gremlin-VEGFR2 axis was found in several human nephropathies. We have recently described that Gremlin activates the VEGFR2 signaling pathway in the kidney, eliciting a downstream mechanism linked to renal inflammatory response. Gremlin deletion improves experimental renal damage, diminishing fibrosis. Overall, the available data identify the Gremlin-VEGFR2 axis as a novel therapeutic target for kidney inflammation and fibrosis and provide a rationale for unveiling new concepts to investigate in several clinical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Mezzano
- Division of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Alejandra Droguett
- Division of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Carolina Lavoz
- Division of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Paola Krall
- Division of Nephrology, School of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Jesús Egido
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, University Hospital, Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma, CIBERDEM, Instituto Renal Reina Sofía, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Ruiz-Ortega
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, Universidad Autónoma Madrid, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, RedinRen, Madrid, Spain
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22
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VEGFR2 activation mediates the pro-angiogenic activity of BMP4. Angiogenesis 2019; 22:521-533. [PMID: 31363885 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-019-09676-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The Bone Morphogenetic Protein 4 (BMP4) regulates multiple biological processes, including vascular development and angiogenesis. Here, we investigated the role of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 2 (VEGFR2) in mediating the angiogenic activity of BMP4. BMP4 induces a rapid relocation and phosphorylation of VEGFR2 on the endothelial cell membrane. These effects occur in the absence of a direct interaction of BMP4 and/or BMP receptors with VEGFR2. At variance, BMP4, by interacting with the BMPRI-II hetero-complex, induces c-Src phosphorylation which, in turn, activates VEGFR2, leading to an angiogenic response. Accordingly, the BMPR inhibitor dorsomorphin prevents c-Src activation and specific inhibition of c-Src significantly reduces downstream VEGFR2 phosphorylation and the angiogenic activity exerted by BMP4 in a chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane assay. Together, our data indicate that the pro-angiogenic activity exerted by BMP4 in endothelial cells is mediated by a BMPR-mediated intracellular transactivation of VEGFR2 via c-Src.
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23
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Ghuman MS, Al-Masri M, Xavier G, Cobourne MT, McKay IJ, Hughes FJ. Gingival fibroblasts prevent BMP-mediated osteoblastic differentiation. J Periodontal Res 2018; 54:300-309. [PMID: 30511378 PMCID: PMC6492095 DOI: 10.1111/jre.12631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Revised: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Objectives The inhibitory action of the superficial gingival connective tissues may limit the regenerative potential of alveolar bone in periodontal therapy or dental implant applications. The aims of this study were to investigate the hypothesis that gingival fibroblasts (GF) can inhibit bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)‐induced osteoblastic differentiation, to determine their expression of BMP inhibitors, and finally to determine whether reduction of these inhibitors can relieve suppression of osteoblastic differentiation. Methods Gingival fibroblasts were co‐cultured either directly or indirectly with calvarial osteoblasts to assess alkaline phosphatase inhibitory activity, a marker of osteoblastic differentiation. To test total BMP‐inhibitory activity of rat GF, conditioned media (GFCM) were collected from cultures. ROS 17/2.8 osteoblastic cells were stimulated with BMP2, together with GFCM. Inhibitor expression was tested using RT‐qPCR, Western blotting and in situ hybridization. Removal of inhibitors was carried out using immunoprecipitation beads. Results Co‐culture experiments showed GF‐secreted factors that inhibit BMP‐stimulated ALP activity. 10 ng/ml BMP2 increased alkaline phosphatase expression in ROS cells by 41%. GFCM blocked BMP activity which was equivalent to the activity of 100 ng/ml Noggin, a well‐described BMP inhibitor. Cultured gingival fibroblasts constitutively expressed BMP antagonist genes from the same subfamily, Grem1, Grem2 and Nbl1 and the Wnt inhibitor Sfrp1. Gremlin1 (6.7 × reference gene expression) had highest levels of basal expression. ISH analysis showed Gremlin1 expression was restricted to the inner half of the gingival lamina propria and the PDL. Removal of Gremlin1 protein from GFCM eliminated the inhibitory effect of GFCM on ALP activity in ROS cells. Subsequent addition of recombinant Gremlin1 restored the inhibitory activity. Conclusions Factors secreted by gingival fibroblasts inhibit BMP‐induced bone formation and a range of BMP inhibitors are constitutively expressed in gingival connective tissues. These inhibitors, particularly Gremlin1, may limit coronal alveolar bone regenerative potential during oral and periodontal surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandeep S Ghuman
- Division of Tissue Engineering and Biophotonics, Dental Institute, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Guilherme Xavier
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology, Dental Institute, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Martyn T Cobourne
- Centre for Craniofacial and Regenerative Biology, Dental Institute, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Ian J McKay
- Department of Adult Oral Health, Institute of Dentistry, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Francis J Hughes
- Division of Tissue Engineering and Biophotonics, Dental Institute, King's College London, London, UK
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24
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Rowan SC, Piouceau L, Cornwell J, Li L, McLoughlin P. EXPRESS: Gremlin1 blocks vascular endothelial growth factor signalling in the pulmonary microvascular endothelium. Pulm Circ 2018; 10:2045894018807205. [PMID: 30284507 PMCID: PMC7066471 DOI: 10.1177/2045894018807205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) antagonist gremlin 1 plays a central role in the pathogenesis of hypoxic pulmonary hypertension (HPH). Recently, non-canonical functions of gremlin 1 have been identified, including specific binding to the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR2). We tested the hypothesis that gremlin 1 modulates VEGFR2 signaling in the pulmonary microvascular endothelium. We examined the effect of gremlin 1 haploinsufficiency on the expression of VEGF responsive genes and proteins in the hypoxic (10% O2) murine lung in vivo. Using human microvascular endothelial cells in vitro we examined the effect of gremlin 1 on VEGF signaling. Gremlin 1 haploinsufficiency (Grem1+/–) attenuated the hypoxia-induced increase in gremlin 1 observed in the wild-type mouse lung. Reduced gremlin 1 expression in hypoxic Grem1+/– mice restored VEGFR2 expression and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression and activity to normoxic values. Recombinant monomeric gremlin 1 inhibited VEGFA-induced VEGFR2 activation, downstream signaling, and VEGF-induced increases in Bcl-2, cell number, and the anti-apoptotic effect of VEGFA in vitro. These results show that the monomeric form of gremlin 1 acts as an antagonist of VEGFR2 activation in the pulmonary microvascular endothelium. Given the previous demonstration that inhibition of VEGFR2 causes marked worsening of HPH, our results suggest that increased gremlin 1 in the hypoxic lung, in addition to blocking BMP receptor type-2 (BMPR2) signaling, contributes importantly to the development of PH by a non-canonical VEGFR2 blocking activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon C. Rowan
- UCD School of Medicine and Conway Institute,
University
College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lucie Piouceau
- UCD School of Medicine and Conway Institute,
University
College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Joanna Cornwell
- UCD School of Medicine and Conway Institute,
University
College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lili Li
- UCD School of Medicine and Conway Institute,
University
College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Paul McLoughlin
- UCD School of Medicine and Conway Institute,
University
College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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25
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Pagani F, Trivedi A, Khatri D, Zizioli D, Garrafa E, Mitola S, Finazzi D. Silencing of pantothenate kinase 2 reduces endothelial cell angiogenesis. Mol Med Rep 2018; 18:4739-4746. [PMID: 30221726 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2018.9480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Coenzyme A (CoA) is an essential cofactor of cellular metabolism that is involved in ~4% of cellular reactions. Its de novo production relies on five subsequent enzymatic steps, starting with the phosphorylation of vitamin B5. Pantothenate kinase 2 (PANK2) and coenzyme A synthase (COASY) catalyze the first and last steps of this pathway. Mutations in these genes lead to severe and progressive movement disorders, with neurodegeneration and iron accumulation in the basal ganglia, known as PANK2‑ and COASY protein‑associated neurodegeneration, respectively. Given the ubiquitous role of CoA in cellular metabolism, it is still not clear why patients carrying PANK2 and COASY mutations develop almost exclusively neurological symptoms. Important clues are the energetic profile of neural cells as well as the high levels of PANK2 expression in the brain; however, other features may contribute to this selective tissue vulnerability. Notably, when pank2 or coasy expression was suppressed in zebrafish evident perturbation of neuronal development was observed, as well as severe defects in vasculature formation. Supplementation of CoA to fish water prevented the appearance of the phenotype, thereby confirming the specific connection with the availability of the metabolic cofactor. The present study investigated the associations between PANK2 defects and angiogenesis in a mammalian setting, and revealed that PANK2 expression was required for normal angiogenetic properties of human umbilical vein endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Pagani
- Section of Biotechnology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, I‑25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Akansha Trivedi
- Section of Biotechnology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, I‑25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Deepak Khatri
- Section of Biotechnology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, I‑25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Daniela Zizioli
- Section of Biotechnology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, I‑25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Emirena Garrafa
- Section of Biotechnology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, I‑25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefania Mitola
- Section of Biotechnology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, I‑25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Dario Finazzi
- Section of Biotechnology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, I‑25123 Brescia, Italy
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26
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Gremlin activates the Notch pathway linked to renal inflammation. Clin Sci (Lond) 2018; 132:1097-1115. [PMID: 29720422 DOI: 10.1042/cs20171553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Revised: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Preclinical studies suggest that Gremlin participates in renal damage and could be a potential therapeutic target for human chronic kidney diseases. Inflammation is a common characteristic of progressive renal disease, and therefore novel anti-inflammatory therapeutic targets should be investigated. The Notch signaling pathway is involved in kidney development and is activated in human chronic kidney disease, but whether Gremlin regulates the Notch pathway has not been investigated. In cultured tubular cells, Gremlin up-regulated gene expression of several Notch pathway components, increased the production of the canonical ligand Jagged-1, and caused the nuclear translocation of active Notch-1 (N1ICD). In vivo administration of Gremlin into murine kidneys elicited Jagged-1 production, increased N1ICD nuclear levels, and up-regulated the gene expression of the Notch effectors hes-1 and hey-1 All these data clearly demonstrate that Gremlin activates the Notch pathway in the kidney. Notch inhibition using the γ-secretase inhibitor DAPT impaired renal inflammatory cell infiltration and proinflammatory cytokines overexpression in Gremlin-injected mice and in experimental models of renal injury. Moreover, Notch inhibition blocked Gremlin-induced activation of the canonical and noncanonical nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway, identifying an important mechanism involved in the anti-inflammatory actions of Notch inhibition. In conclusion, Gremlin activates the Notch pathway in the kidney and this is linked to NF-κB-mediated inflammation, supporting the hypothesis that Notch inhibition could be a potential anti-inflammatory strategy for renal diseases.
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27
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Corsini M, Ravaggi A, Odicino F, Santin AD, Ravelli C, Presta M, Romani C, Mitola S. Claudin3 is localized outside the tight junctions in human carcinomas. Oncotarget 2018; 9:18446-18453. [PMID: 29719617 PMCID: PMC5915084 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.24858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Claudin3 is an integral component of the tight junction proteins in polarized epithelia. The expression of claudin3 was assessed in epithelial-derived tumors using Oncomine database. To determine the gene alteration during carcinogenesis, copy number alterations and mutations of claudin3 were evaluated using cBioPortal database. Claudin3 is overexpressed in several tumors including gynecological, bladder, breast and prostate carcinomas. 38% of the 163 evaluated studies show mutations and/or amplification of claudin3. 3D reconstruction of tissue samples following immunofluorescence analysis clearly demonstrated that, unlike in healthy tissues, claudin3 is mislocalized and unengaged in the formation of tight junction in tumor samples. These data strongly support the evaluation of unengaged claudin3 as a target for the development of novel diagnostic probes, optical approaches for real time detection of tumoral tissues during surgery, and target therapeutic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Corsini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Antonella Ravaggi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, 'Angelo Nocivelli' Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Franco Odicino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, 'Angelo Nocivelli' Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Davide Santin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Cosetta Ravelli
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.,Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Laboratory for Preventive e Personalized Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Marco Presta
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Chiara Romani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, 'Angelo Nocivelli' Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefania Mitola
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.,Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Laboratory for Preventive e Personalized Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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28
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Liu Y, Chen Z, Cheng H, Chen J, Qian J. Gremlin promotes retinal pigmentation epithelial (RPE) cell proliferation, migration and VEGF production via activating VEGFR2-Akt-mTORC2 signaling. Oncotarget 2018; 8:979-987. [PMID: 27894090 PMCID: PMC5352211 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.13518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2016] [Accepted: 10/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is characterized by late-phase pathologic retinal vasoproliferation. Gremlin is a novel vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF) receptor 2 (VEGFR2) agonist and promotes angiogenic response. We demonstrated that gremlin expression was significantly increased in retinas of ROP model mice, which was correlated with VEGF upregulation. In retinal pigmentation epithelial (RPE) cells, gremlin activated VEGFR2-Akt-mTORC2 (mammalian target of rapamycin complex 2) signaling, and promoted cell proliferation, migration and VEGF production. VEGFR inhibition (by SU5416) or shRNA knockdown almost abolished gremlin-mediated pleiotropic functions in RPE cells. Further, pharmacological inhibition of Akt-mTOR, or shRNA knockdown of key mTORC2 component (Rictor or Sin1) also attenuated gremlin-exerted activities in RPE cells. We conclude that gremlin promotes RPE cell proliferation, migration and VEGF production possibly via activating VEGFR2-Akt-mTORC2 signaling. Gremlin could be a novel therapeutic target of ROP or other retinal vasoproliferation diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhijun Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Haixia Cheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Juan Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing Qian
- Department of Ophthalmology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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29
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Damioli V, Salvadori A, Beretta GP, Ravelli C, Mitola S. Multi-physics interactions drive VEGFR2 relocation on endothelial cells. Sci Rep 2017; 7:16700. [PMID: 29196628 PMCID: PMC5711959 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-16786-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-2 (VEGFR2) is a pro-angiogenic receptor, expressed on endothelial cells (ECs). Although biochemical pathways that follow the VEGFR2 activation are well established, knowledge about the dynamics of receptors on the plasma membrane remains limited. Ligand stimulation induces the polarization of ECs and the relocation of VEGFR2, either in cell protrusions or in the basal aspect in cells plated on ligand-enriched extracellular matrix (ECM). We develop a mathematical model in order to simulate the relocation of VEGFR2 on the cell membrane during the mechanical adhesion of cells onto a ligand-enriched substrate. Co-designing the in vitro experiments with the simulations allows identifying three phases of the receptor dynamics, which are controlled respectively by the high chemical reaction rate, by the mechanical deformation rate, and by the diffusion of free receptors on the membrane. The identification of the laws that regulate receptor polarization opens new perspectives toward developing innovative anti-angiogenic strategies through the modulation of EC activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Damioli
- Università degli Studi di Brescia, DIMI Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Alberto Salvadori
- Università degli Studi di Brescia, DICATAM, Department of Civil, Environmental, Architectural Engineering and Mathematics, Brescia, 25123, Italy.,Laboratory for Preventive and Personalized Medicine (MPP Lab), Università degli Studi di Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Gian Paolo Beretta
- Università degli Studi di Brescia, DIMI Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Brescia, 25123, Italy
| | - Cosetta Ravelli
- Università degli Studi di Brescia, DMMT, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Brescia, 25123, Italy. .,Laboratory for Preventive and Personalized Medicine (MPP Lab), Università degli Studi di Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy.
| | - Stefania Mitola
- Università degli Studi di Brescia, DMMT, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Brescia, 25123, Italy. .,Laboratory for Preventive and Personalized Medicine (MPP Lab), Università degli Studi di Brescia, Brescia, 25123, Italy.
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30
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Jin Z, Niu H, Wang X, Zhang L, Wang Q, Yang A. Preclinical study of CC223 as a potential anti-ovarian cancer agent. Oncotarget 2017; 8:58469-58479. [PMID: 28938571 PMCID: PMC5601667 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.17753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of mTOR contributes to ovarian cancer progression. CC223 is a novel and potent mTOR kinase inhibitor. The current study tested its activity against human ovarian cancer cells. We showed that CC223, at nM concentrations, inhibited survival and proliferation of established/primary human ovarian cancer cells. Further, significant apoptosis activation was observed in CC223-treated ovarian cancer cells. CC223 disrupted assembly of mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and mTORC2 in SKOV3 cells. Meanwhile, activation of mTORC1 and mTORC2 was almost completely blocked by CC223. Intriguingly, restoring mTOR activation by introduction of a constitutively-active Akt1 only partially inhibited CC223-induced cytotoxicity in SKOV3 cells. Further studies showed that CC223 inhibited sphingosine kinase 1 (SphK1) activity and induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in SKOV3 cells. At last, oral administration of CC223 potently inhibited SKOV3 xenografted tumor growth in nude mice. The results of this study imply that CC223 could be further studied as a potential anti-ovarian cancer agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenzhen Jin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Huanfu Niu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Xuenan Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Microarray Core, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Qin Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Aijun Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, China
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31
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Ji C, Huang JW, Xu QY, Zhang J, Lin MT, Tu Y, He L, Bi ZG, Cheng B. Gremlin inhibits UV-induced skin cell damages via activating VEGFR2-Nrf2 signaling. Oncotarget 2016; 7:84748-84757. [PMID: 27713170 PMCID: PMC5356696 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.12454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 09/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ultra Violet (UV) radiation induces reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, DNA oxidation and single strand breaks (SSBs), which will eventually lead to skin cell damages or even skin cancer. Here, we tested the potential activity of gremlin, a novel vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor 2 (VEGFR2) agonist, against UV-induced skin cell damages. We show that gremlin activated VEGFR2 and significantly inhibited UV-induced death and apoptosis of skin keratinocytes and fibroblasts. Pharmacological inhibition or shRNA-mediated knockdown of VEGFR2 almost abolished gremlin-mediated cytoprotection against UV in the skin cells. Further studies showed that gremlin activated VEGFR2 downstream NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling, which appeared required for subsequent skin cell protection. Nrf2 shRNA knockdown or S40T dominant negative mutation largely inhibited gremlin-mediated skin cell protection against UV. At last, we show that gremlin dramatically inhibited UV-induced ROS production and DNA SSB formation in skin keratinocytes and fibroblasts. We conclude that gremlin protects skin cells from UV damages via activating VEGFR2-Nrf2 signaling. Gremlin could be further tested as a novel anti-UV skin protectant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Ji
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, Fujian, China
| | - Jin-wen Huang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, Fujian, China
| | - Qiu-yun Xu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, Fujian, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, Fujian, China
| | - Meng-ting Lin
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, Fujian, China
| | - Ying Tu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Yunnan Provincial Institute of Dermatology, Kunming 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Li He
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Yunnan Provincial Institute of Dermatology, Kunming 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Zhi-gang Bi
- Department of Dermatology, BenQ Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210019, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bo Cheng
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, Fujian, China
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